If the injury is as bad as reported Mooy would almost certainly miss Australia’s group stage matches against Jordan, Palestine and Syria at the tournament in the UAE next month.

A four-to-six week layoff could still leave Mooy able to play the latter stages of the tournament if coach Graham Arnold chooses to select him when he names his 23-man squad next week.

Mooy’s injury may open the door to Melbourne Victory midfielder James Troisi. The 2015 Asian Cup hero hasn’t featured for the Socceroos after missing out on this year’s World Cup squad.

But Troisi’s form for the Victory in the A-League could force him back into the setup, particularly given his big-game experience for the national team.

Another potential name who could benefit should Mooy be ruled out is Troisi’s Victory teammate Terry Antonis, who has been a large part of the team’s five straight A-League wins.

Terry Antonis could well be on the plane to the UAE.Source:AAP

Fellow midfielder Tom Rogic is also reportedly struggling with a knee injury, but while Socceroos staff are awaiting an update from his Scottish club Celtic they are confident he’s in no danger of missing the Asian Cup.

Australia begin their title defence against Jordan in Al Ain on January 6.